Summary:
In this week’s episode of the UpLevel Podcast, we had an enlightening discussion with Stephen Shedletzky, a renowned speaker, coach, author, and expert in fostering psychological safety at work. With over 15 years of experience and personal battles with communication barriers, Shed is on a mission to transform workplaces into spaces where every voice matters.
His book, "Speak Up Culture: When Leaders Truly Listen, People Step Up," encapsulates his philosophy on creating safe spaces for open dialogue at work. He emphasizes that leaders don't necessarily need charisma but should display empathy and compassion while listening attentively to their team members.
His journey so far has been inspiring and we can't wait to see what he brings next in promoting psychological safety, diversity, and inclusion in workplaces worldwide.
In this Episode:
Get to know Shed's journey from being a student at Richard Ivy School of Business to becoming an expert in workplace psychological safety.
Discover insights from Shed's latest book "Speak Up Culture: When Leaders Truly Listen, People Step Up". Learn how it aims to improve communication within organizations.
Hear about the pre-launch party of his new book at Indigo Chapters in Toronto—a place filled with nostalgia for him as his first date location!
Gain valuable advice on marketing strategies that focus on organic growth over gimmicks or paid promotions.
Understand why selling books can be challenging and how targeting specific groups like libraries, communities or organizations could lead to faster success.
Shed emphasizes utilizing your network not just for personal gain but also for sharing something beneficial.
Realize why publishing a book should align with your overall mission rather than being the ultimate goal itself.
Learn from Shed's personal experiences—growing up with a stutter and marrying a speech therapist—that led him towards understanding fear associated with speaking up and overcoming communication barriers.
Explore insights into creating work environments where individuals feel safe expressing themselves leading to learning and growing together.
Uncover how "Speak Up Culture" is more than just a business guidebook—it advocates compassion, empathy, and care in leadership.
Order of Topics:
Introduction to Shed
Speak Up Culture
A Nostalgic Book Launch
Marketing Strategies for Aspiring Authors
The Art of Selling Books
The Importance of Networking
Publishing Goals Alignment
Personal Challenges & Strengths
Effective Communication and Open Dialogue Culture
Book’s Purpose Beyond Business Guidebook
About Stephen:
Stephen Shedletzky or “Shed” to his friends, helps leaders make it safe and worth it for people to speak up. He supports humble leaders who know they are both a part of the problems they experience and the solutions they can create; as they put their people and purpose first. A sought-after speaker, coach, and advisor, Shed has led hundreds of keynote presentations, workshops, and leadership development programs around the world. As a thought leader on psychological safety in the workplace, he supports leaders and organizations in all industries where human beings work. He is the author of “Speak-Up Culture: When Leaders Truly Listen, People Step Up."
After years on a corporate track, Shed was introduced to and inspired by the work
of Simon Sinek and, soon after meeting him, became the fourth person to join his
team. For more than a decade, Shed has contributed at Simon Sinek, Inc., where, as
Chief of Staff and Head of Brand Experience, Training & Development, he headed a
global team of speakers and facilitators. Shed continues to speak and facilitate with
Simon Sinek helping to create a more inspired, safe, and fulfilled world. Shed graduated from the Richard Ivey School of Business with a focus on leadership, communication, and strategy. He also received his coaching certification from The Co-Active Training Institute. He lives in Toronto with his wife and two young children.
Website: https://www.shedinspires.com/
Book Website: www.speakupculture.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shedinspires/
Purchase Links for Speak-Up Culture:
About UpLevel Productions: Founded by Christie Mann, MA, CPCC, PCC, and Rachel Baldi, CPCC, PCC, UpLevel creates, produces, and delivers Transformative Experiences, Workshops, Training, Events + Media that develop leaders who make our world a healthier, more alive, and connected place to be. As Associate CTI Faculty Partners, UpLevel is licensed to sell, produce and deliver Co-Active coach training and leadership development programs around the world to support the transformational growth of individuals and culture inside the workplace and organization. www.uplevelproductions.com Instagram @uplevelproductions Facebook & LinkedIn @uplevelproductionscompany